How to De-Winterize Your Plumbing for Warmer Weather in New England
If you own a seasonal home in Western Massachusetts or Northern Connecticut, then you likely winterize it before leaving for the season. Getting your home ready for the spring and summer months, therefore, requires de-winterizing it. You can count on the plumbers at FSi Oil and Propane to help. Before you settle in for the season, check these important de-winterization tasks off your list to ensure your home’s ready for use.
1. Reconnect and Turn On Appliances
If you disconnected any appliances that use water during winterization, reconnect them. These might include your washing machine, dishwasher, water or ice dispenser on your fridge, and water heater. Wait to turn your water heater on until the tank is full to prevent any potential damage.
2. Turn On Your Main Water Supply
If you added antifreeze to your pipes, faucets, and drains during winterization, our plumbers can help you drain the antifreeze from your lines and turn your water on if you need assistance. When you turn on your main water supply, it’s important to slowly open the shutoff valve to prevent sudden surges of pressure. Listen for any unusual noises and watch for leaks.
3. Open Faucets and Let Air Out
Open all of your faucets, one at a time. Let the water run until all the air is out of your lines. If you didn’t winterize your outdoor spigots and only turned off the water, check for leaks and damage before fully opening the faucet.
4. Check for Leaks
Inspect all valves and joints and look under sinks, around your water heater, and in your basement. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to crack, and unnoticed leaks can lead to wasted water, costly damage, and high utility bills.
5. Flush Toilets
Turn each toilet on and allow the tank to fill with water before flushing. Ensure everything is in working order. If you notice any leaks, weak pressure, or other problems, call our team for service.
6. Check Drains
Run water down all drains to ensure there are no blockages or problems with slow draining. If you notice clogs or draining issues, call our team to help assess and resolve the issue.
Related Post: Why You Should Upgrade Your Plumbing This Season
Contact the Plumbers at FSi Oil and Propane
Need help de-winterizing your home? Contact the experts at FSi. Our plumbers can resolve most plumbing issues efficiently and affordably. As you’re preparing your home for warm weather, if you notice any issues, be sure to reach out to our experts for help with repairs or replacements.